Chicken parmesan, a dish that has become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, is a breaded and fried chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. But have you ever wondered why it’s called chicken parmesan? The name “parmesan” might seem out of place in a dish that doesn’t necessarily feature parmesan cheese as the main ingredient. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of chicken parmesan and explore the reasons behind its name.
A Brief History of Chicken Parmesan
Chicken parmesan is an Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. The dish is believed to have been created by Italian immigrants who came to the United States in the early 1900s. These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, including the use of breaded and fried cutlets, which were a staple in Italian cuisine.
One of the earliest recorded references to a dish similar to chicken parmesan is from a 1948 menu from the New York City restaurant, Mamma Leone’s. The menu featured a dish called “Chicken Parmigiana,” which consisted of breaded and fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
The Influence of Italian Cuisine
Italian cuisine has a long history of using breaded and fried cutlets, known as “cotoletta” or “cutletta.” This technique was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants, who adapted it to use chicken breasts instead of veal or pork cutlets.
In Italy, a similar dish called “parmigiana di melanzane” is popular in the southern region of Campania. This dish consists of breaded and fried eggplant slices topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s possible that Italian immigrants brought this recipe with them to the United States and adapted it to use chicken instead of eggplant.
The Role of Parmesan Cheese
So, why is the dish called chicken parmesan if it doesn’t necessarily feature parmesan cheese as the main ingredient? The answer lies in the history of Italian cuisine. In Italy, parmesan cheese is often used as a topping for pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian-American favorites.
In the case of chicken parmesan, the name “parmesan” likely refers to the use of parmesan cheese as a topping, rather than the main ingredient. The dish typically features a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese, with the parmesan cheese adding a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.
The Evolution of Chicken Parmesan
Over time, chicken parmesan has evolved to become a staple in Italian-American cuisine. The dish has been adapted and modified to suit different tastes and preferences. Some variations of chicken parmesan feature different types of cheese, such as provolone or ricotta, while others add additional ingredients like ham or spinach.
Despite these variations, the core ingredients of chicken parmesan remain the same: breaded and fried chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. The dish has become a favorite in Italian-American restaurants and households, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
Chicken Parmesan in Popular Culture
Chicken parmesan has appeared in popular culture in various forms. In the 1990s, the dish was featured in the TV show “The Sopranos,” where it was a favorite of the main character, Tony Soprano.
In music, chicken parmesan has been referenced in songs by artists like Lil Wayne and Jay-Z. The dish has also been featured in various films, including “The Godfather” and “Goodfellas.”
Chicken Parmesan in the Modern Era
Today, chicken parmesan remains a popular dish in Italian-American cuisine. The dish has been adapted and modified to suit different tastes and preferences, with variations featuring different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables.
In recent years, chicken parmesan has become a staple in food trucks and casual dining restaurants. The dish is often served with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad.
| Restaurant | Chicken Parmesan Variation |
|---|---|
| Carrabba’s Italian Grill | Wood-fired grilled chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese |
| Olive Garden | Breaded and fried chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, served with a side of pasta |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the name “chicken parmesan” refers to the use of parmesan cheese as a topping, rather than the main ingredient. The dish has a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century, when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States.
Today, chicken parmesan remains a popular dish in Italian-American cuisine, with variations featuring different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables. Whether you’re a foodie or just a fan of Italian-American cuisine, chicken parmesan is a dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Key Takeaways:
- Chicken parmesan is an Italian-American dish that originated in the United States in the mid-20th century.
- The dish is believed to have been created by Italian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to the United States.
- The name “parmesan” refers to the use of parmesan cheese as a topping, rather than the main ingredient.
- Chicken parmesan has evolved over time to become a staple in Italian-American cuisine, with variations featuring different types of cheese, meats, and vegetables.
What is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan is a popular Italian-American dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The dish is often served with pasta, a side salad, or as a sandwich. Chicken Parmesan is a classic comfort food that has become a staple in many Italian-American restaurants and households.
The origins of Chicken Parmesan are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. The dish is thought to have been created by Italian immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them to America. Over time, the dish evolved and was adapted to suit American tastes, resulting in the Chicken Parmesan we know and love today.
Where did the name “Parmesan” come from?
The name “Parmesan” in Chicken Parmesan refers to the city of Parma in Italy, which is famous for its Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese is a type of hard, aged cheese that is often grated over pasta dishes, salads, and other Italian dishes. In the case of Chicken Parmesan, the melted mozzarella cheese is often topped with grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.
The use of Parmesan cheese in Chicken Parmesan is a nod to the Italian origins of the dish. While the dish itself may not have originated in Italy, the use of Parmesan cheese is a way of paying homage to the country’s rich culinary traditions. Today, the name “Parmesan” is synonymous with Italian cuisine, and its use in Chicken Parmesan is a way of evoking the flavors and aromas of Italy.
Is Chicken Parmesan an authentic Italian dish?
Chicken Parmesan is not an authentic Italian dish in the classical sense. While it is based on Italian culinary traditions, the dish as we know it today is an American creation. In Italy, a similar dish called “parmigiana di melanzane” is popular, but it is made with breaded and fried eggplant slices, not chicken.
However, the Italian-American community has made Chicken Parmesan its own, and the dish has become a staple of Italian-American cuisine. Many Italian-American restaurants and households have their own versions of Chicken Parmesan, and the dish is often served at family gatherings and special occasions. While it may not be authentic Italian cuisine, Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish that has become an integral part of Italian-American culture.
What is the difference between Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana?
Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two. Chicken Parmigiana is the Italian-American term for the dish, and it refers specifically to the breaded and fried chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Chicken Parmesan, on the other hand, is a more generic term that refers to the dish as a whole, including the pasta or side salad that often accompanies it. In some restaurants, Chicken Parmesan may also refer to a specific type of pasta dish that features chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. While the terms are often used interchangeably, Chicken Parmigiana is a more specific term that refers to the chicken breast itself.
How do you make Chicken Parmesan?
Making Chicken Parmesan is a relatively simple process that requires just a few ingredients. The first step is to prepare the breading station, which consists of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. The chicken breast is then dredged in the flour, dipped in the eggs, and coated in the breadcrumbs.
The breaded chicken breast is then fried in olive oil until golden brown and crispy. While the chicken is cooking, the marinara sauce is heated in a separate saucepan, and the mozzarella cheese is sliced. Once the chicken is cooked, it is topped with the marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, and served hot with pasta or a side salad.
Can you make Chicken Parmesan in the oven?
Yes, you can make Chicken Parmesan in the oven instead of frying it. This is a healthier alternative that still produces a crispy and delicious crust on the chicken breast. To make oven-baked Chicken Parmesan, the breaded chicken breast is placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and baked in a preheated oven until golden brown and crispy.
The oven-baked method is a great way to make Chicken Parmesan without the added calories of frying. Simply bake the chicken breast in the oven until cooked through, then top it with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Is Chicken Parmesan a popular dish around the world?
Chicken Parmesan is a popular dish in the United States and other countries with large Italian-American populations, such as Canada and Australia. However, it is not as well-known in other parts of the world, particularly in Europe and Asia.
In Italy, the dish is not commonly found on menus, and the Italian version of the dish, parmigiana di melanzane, is more popular. However, Chicken Parmesan has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in tourist areas and among expats. In other parts of the world, Chicken Parmesan is often found on menus in Italian restaurants and is a popular choice among diners who are looking for a comforting and flavorful meal.